Rumba Classic

Rumba Classic is a respectful and enjoyable collection of vintage rumbas performed by London-based Congolese musicians under the leadership of producer Jeannot Bel. The choice of songs cannot be faulted. Included are versions of some of the best known titles from the DRC side of the Congo. Songs from Le Grand Kallé, Franco, Tabu Ley Rochereau and Sam Mangwana include ‘Felicite’, ‘Fatimata’, ‘Adios Thethe’, ‘Indépendance Tchatcha’ and ‘Africa Mokili Mobimba’. In addition to the nine classic rumbas, the physical release includes four of Bel's own compositions – rumba in a more modern vein. (The digital version of the album only includes eight of the classic rumbas.)

As well as his guitar skills Bel has a good voice. He is joined by Nzaya Nzayadio, a singer best known for his time fronting Lipua-Lipua and as a member of Choc Stars. He particularly excels on the track ‘Songueriste’. The four contemporary songs here are very much in the Choc Stars style – modern rumba but with a cool sophisticated edge. Additional guitar work comes from Willy Moke and American Don Keller, whose own excellent solo album was recently produced by Bel. This is a very good rumba album that is only slightly hampered by some unnecessary cheesy keyboard. Jeannot Bel has also recorded soukous and religious music but he excels with the classic rumba.